Cutting costs through prevention

This is an examination of a proven model, developed by MDVIP, for delivering cost-effective preventive medicine that is not possible in traditional primary care practices. Successful preventive care demands an in-depth assessment of health risk factors, appropriate screenings, and planning for long-term wellness goals based upon individual medical needs. In today's healthcare climate, the only way to offer comprehensive, quality service is by dramatically reducing practice size to no more than 600 patients, affording physicians the time needed to provide proactive medical care. The data show that with this model, patients have reduced hospital visits, shorter lengths of stay, and reduced costs. This model is commonly referred to as "concierge" medicine, of which MDVIP-affiliated physicians constitute 25 percent of the estimated 300 concierge practices nationally.